Wildfire Smoke & Animals

Resources

Health advisories issued for air quality also apply to animals. Smoke, ash and dust from wildfires affects pets, birds, horses, livestock and wildlife. Pet birds are particularly susceptible to particulates in the air.

Signs of Smoke or Dust Irritation in Animals

Unusual coughing, sneezing or gagging

Difficulty breathing, including open mouth breathing

Eye irritation and excessive watering

Inflammation of throat or mouth

Nasal discharge

Asthma-like symptoms

Increased breathing rate

Weakness and lethargy

Tips to Keep Animals Safe from Wildfire Smoke

Keep pets and pet birds indoors with the windows shut.

Avoid intense outdoor exercise during periods of poor air quality. Exercise pets when dust and smoke has settled.

Limit time outdoors for pets on days designated with a red air quality alert to quick potty breaks.

Pet birds need to remain indoors as much as possible during the highest level advisories.

Animals that have cardiovascular or respiratory disease are at increased risk during periods of poor air quality and should be watched closely.